By: 92Pavilion | Updated: September 3, 2026
Quick Answer: Police in Mandi Bahauddin have arrested a suspect accused of sexually abusing a nine-month-old baby girl at a family’s residence in the Sohawa Bolani locality. The child’s family and members of the community have held protests demanding accountability, as the case has drawn wider public attention to child protection gaps in the area.
What Police Have Said
According to officials in the district’s Civil Lines police precinct, the child’s father, who works for a local landlord, told police that a man identified only as “JS,” a resident of Rajanpur, allegedly assaulted his infant daughter at the family home while her mother was away at work. The family says the child was left in a swing fashioned from a dupatta tied to a charpai, a common practice among families in the area while a parent works nearby.
Police said the suspect fled the scene once the child’s mother returned home and discovered her injured. A case was registered against him, and officers say he was subsequently arrested and is now in custody as the investigation continues.
A Family Seeking Accountability
The child’s family, who work as daily-wage labourers on land owned by a local landlord, say they have faced pressure since coming forward with their complaint. Community members and rights advocates have rallied around the family, holding protests to press authorities for a fair and timely investigation and to ensure the case receives proper legal follow-through.
The incident has renewed public attention on the broader pattern of child abuse cases reported in Mandi Bahauddin district in recent years, with residents calling for stronger local oversight and protection measures for vulnerable families.
The Wider Picture in Pakistan
Data compiled by Sahil, a non-governmental organisation that tracks child abuse cases across the country, has repeatedly shown that child sexual abuse remains a persistent and serious problem nationwide, with Punjab consistently accounting for the largest share of reported cases. Advocates say many cases go unreported because of social stigma and pressure on families, particularly in rural and low-income communities.
What Happens Next
The case now moves forward through Pakistan’s legal process, with the suspect in custody pending further investigation. Officials have said they will pursue the case under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code that address the sexual abuse of minors, and community members say they will continue to monitor the case to ensure it is not allowed to lapse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Mandi Bahauddin?
Police say a nine-month-old baby girl was allegedly sexually abused at her family’s home in the Sohawa Bolani locality, and a suspect has since been arrested.
Has anyone been arrested?
Yes. Police have arrested a suspect identified as “JS,” a resident of Rajanpur, in connection with the case.
Why are residents protesting?
The child’s family and members of the community are protesting to demand accountability and to ensure the case is properly investigated and prosecuted.
What is being done to address child abuse cases in the district?
Local police have registered a case and made an arrest, while community advocates continue to press for stronger protective measures for vulnerable families in the area.
This report is based on reporting from Dawn and Daily Pakistan. This is a sensitive topic; if you or someone you know has experienced abuse, local police and child protection services can provide support.
92Pavilion brings you responsible, verified coverage of Pakistan’s communities and public affairs. Stay with us for continued updates.
